Many people think of New Jersey in two ways: the Jersey Shore or the crowded, urban gateway to New York City. The fact is, New Jersey was not nicknamed the “Garden State” as a joke. Much of the state is a rural playground full of parks, farms, rolling hills, rivers, museums, and living history. Here are some of the best things to do in New Jersey that aren’t on the shore.
This post contains affiliate links to products and services I recommend.
I may make a commission, and there is no cost to you.
Things to do in NJ: Outdoor Fun
State Parks: There are several serene, scenic State Parks in New Jersey with hiking and biking trails, canoeing, fishing, swimming, picnicking, and more. Some of my favorites include High Point State Park (with a monument marking the highest point in the state – great views!), Washington Crossing State Park (see bonus section at the end of this post!), and Hacklebarney State Park (forested park along the Black River with great trails and waterfalls).
Farms and Fields: Don’t miss the farms of Northwest NJ in the summer and fall! Some of my favorites are Melick’s Town Farm, Bonacorsi Berry Farm, Peterson Family Farm, Schaefer Farm, Cervenka Farm, and Phillips Farm for pick-your-own berries, peaches, apples, and pumpkins.
Grounds for Sculpture: Located in Hamilton, NJ, this amazing outdoor sculpture park will wow your whole family with beautiful art sculptures presented in a fun and unique way. Spend the day wandering the grounds, then eat at their Cafe for casual or Rat’s Restaurant for a fantastic fine dining experience. The kids love the peacocks that roam free on the grounds.
Diggerland: Doesn’t every little boy dream of driving a big digger? This construction-themed adventure park in West Berlin allows visitors to drive, ride, and operate heavy machinery in a safe, family-friendly environment. They also have a great rock climbing/ropes course. Check out my review of Diggerland.
Lakota Wolf Preserve: Beautiful spot to hike and learn about the true behavior of the wolf. Lots of other wildlife to see here, too. They are not open to the public to come any time – you must join a wolf tour, offered twice per day (closed Mondays).
Turtleback Zoo: Turtle Back in West Orange, NJ has lots of great animal encounters, plus mini golf, train rides, pony rides, a carousel, zip lining, and more! The Outback Aviary – home to over 500 free flight Australian grass parakeets, as well as kookaburras and lorikeets – is one of my family’s favorite experiences. Visitors can purchase a feed stick and have birds literally eating out of their hands.
Howell Living History Farm: Step back in time to 1900 and spend a day working on this beautiful farm near Lambertville, NJ. Lots of animals to see and knowledgeable workers dressed in period clothing. They host all kinds of special programs throughout the year. If you visit in October you can experience one of the most challenging corn mazes around!
Old Barracks: New Jersey is full of colonial and revolutionary history. The Old Barracks Museum in Trenton brings the world of colonial America to life through interpretive programs, exhibits, and preservation. Visitors will come out with an appreciation of New Jersey’s history, the diverse people who made it, and why it matters.
Best Activities in NJ for a Rainy Day
Sahara Sam’s Oasis: Minutes from Diggerland is Sahara Sam’s water park with plenty of awesome water slides, lazy river, surfing simulator, lots to do for all ages, easy access to lockers, restrooms and changing areas, an arcade, and more.
Northlandz: Rainy day? Northlandz holds the Guinness World Record for Largest Model Railroad with 100 trains traveling over more than 8 miles of track. If you have a little (or big) train lover in your family, they will enjoy the fascinating details in this model railroad museum in Flemington, NJ.
Liberty Science Center: The spacious layout and hands-on exhibits at Liberty Science Center in Jersey City draw you in to the wonder of science and experimentation. It’s a great place to spend the day with inspiring views of the New York City skyline.
Beyond the shore, New Jersey doesn’t get enough love. Check out the rural side of the state and enjoy all it has to offer!
Leave a Reply